WHY REKEY OR CHANGE A DOOR LOCK?

In the event that you buy a new business property or fire an employee, business owners need to consider rekeying the locks or changing the locks out of their doors. Door locks all have the same keys, at least in a good master key system. If employees who were fired want revenge, they may use the key they have to steal or vandalize your business.

Although this is a terrible thing to happen, robberies are not unheard of. In fact, Alamo Key & Lock has had to replace and change door locks for businesses who learned the hard way. They fired an employee, an act within their right, and did not change the locks. Very shortly afterward, they were burglarized. The security doors were not picked. Instead, they were simply opened by someone who had the key. Don’t let this to happen to your business! Protect your property from vandalism by disgruntled ex-employees by changing your door locks.

Another reason to change your door locks is after buying a new business. Since many people had access to the building before you bought it, they’ll still have access to the building afterward.Would you rather wonder how many people are out there with keys to your new business property? Or simply rekey the locks. Besides, rekeying a lock isn’t the same thing as changing out the door lock, and is cheaper. (More on that below). Many people might have keys to the building you bought: construction workers, brokers, contractors, and anyone they gave keys to, too. Alamo Key & Lock highly recommends that you hire a commercial locksmith to rekey the locks.

SHOULD I CHANGE DOOR LOCKS OR REKEY DOOR LOCKS?

Once you’ve decided to rekey your locks, before you start you should decide if you want to change the locks entirely

Why would you change out commercial door locks? There are many reasons.

BENEFITS OF CHANGING DOOR LOCKS

Some of the benefits of changing out your door locks are to gain extra security by upgrading to more secure locks — heavy duty locks or high security locks. Another reason is if the door locks on your business property are stiff, loose, or tight, they likely need repair by a professional locksmith anyway. Instead of spending money on repairing old locks, it may be time to replace your locks or get new ones.

And to be clear, Alamo Key & Lock isn’t requiring any specific decision to be made when rekeying your locks. Instead, this moment when you need a locksmith anyway is a good one to look at all of your door lock options.

REPLACING KEYS

Replacing commercial door lock keys is a simple task that our professional locksmith can do in a matter of minutes. Our locksmiths will travel to your business, and usually arrive within 30 minutes. Since Houston has bad traffic during rush hour, it may take up to 45. In either case, our locksmith will always update you of his ETA en route to your business.

When replacing keys, it’s important to know a few keys points.

HOW CAN I REPLACE A COMMERCIAL KEY?

First, locksmiths will not be able to replace any lost keys on high security locks that have manufacturer-specified do-not-duplicate requirements. In the case that you lose a do-not-duplicate high security lock key, you must have proof of ownership of the lock in order for the locksmith to duplicate the key. Although sometimes a hassle for business owners, this policy ultimately protects the business owner and the locksmith.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REKEYING A COMMERCIAL DOOR LOCK?

Second, business owners should strongly consider rekeying a commercial door lock if a key has been lost or stolen. Unlike house keys or even car keys, it can be obvious to a thief which business the stolen key belongs to. For example, imagine this scenario: a thief steals a car key at a mall. He or she will be hard pressed to identify the car it belongs to in a massive parking garage. On the other hand, a thief steals a business key from an employee at the place of business. In this case, it’s now obvious which business the stolen keys belong to. Therefore, instead of simply replacing lost keys or duplicating stolen commercial keys, strongly consider rekeying the entire lock.

The benefit of rekeying a lock is that previous keys that were stolen no longer fit the lock. Simply copy the new key and give it to your employees and throw out the old keys.

HOW TO REKEY A LOCK?

An easy way to imagine rekeying a lock is to think of a commercial door lock has two main parts. For this scenario, let’s use a typical commercial pin tumbler lock.

One, the door lock hardware that mounts the lock to the door and the door to the door frame. On the door, this equipment includes mounting plates, screws, and lock housing. And on the other side, the mounting hardware for the door frame, which is usually a recessed bolt hole. Two, the commercial lock hardware that actually locks the door to the door frame. This lock hardware includes the door knob or latch, the cylinder, the retainer ring and plug, the spindle, and the tumbler pin wheels.

When a locksmith rekeys a lock, he or she only replaces pieces of the hardware of the second part of the lock, the internal locking device. In other words, a locksmith fundamentally only needs to change out the pins of the locking mechanism. So all of the other hardware, including the door knob or latch, remain the same.

MORE COMMERCIAL SECURITY OPTIONS

Security on a commercial door doesn’t end with the commercial lock that’s installed. There are many other options and additions to beef up security.

HIGH SECURITY LOCKS

High Security locks have more robust hardware, more pins, and better mounting to keep your doors safe. Check out our High Security Locks page for a full write up.

HIGH SECURITY PADLOCKS AND MAXIMUM SECURITY BARS

Padlocks can range in strength, security, and durability from standard padlocks to Heavy Duty to High Security. The right padlock for you for your gate, fence, or other set up is based on your needs.

Maximum security bars are an awesome security feature to use on your commercial doors. Especially useful for your back doors, warehouses, and storage doors, high security bars latch the door to the frame and the wall from inside the building. The only way for robbers to penetrate doors with high security bars installed is to break down the entire wall. No easy feat.

DOOR CLOSER LOCKS

Door closers help ensure that a commercial door closes properly. Since many commercial doors are heavy duty, they can close quickly, potentially injuring employees or customers. A door closer helps to stabilize the speed at which the door closes. And they can add a layer of protection for your door too, since many types of door closers have locks installed.

HOW TO MAKE SURE A DOOR LOCK AND KEY CHANGE JOB IS DONE CORRECTLY?

Important Pro Tip: Business owners, make sure your locksmith is doing the job correctly, for any locksmithing job. These days, there are many rogue and fake locksmiths who don’t do the job right, and skimp on labor and parts.

Here’s a pro tip for how to spot whether the locksmith you hired is scamming you:

Even though a door lock rekeying job uses less parts than a door lock replacement job, business owners still need to pay attention to potential rogue or scamming locksmiths. Unfortunately, the locksmith industry has many fake locksmiths who rekey door locks with too few pins. Because rekeying a lock properly with 5pins, 6pins, 7pin tumbler locks can be challenging, some lazy or fake locksmiths will skip this delicate step. Instead of installing the full amount of pins, they will con you and only install 2 or 3. If they do this, nearly any key will be able to open the lock! Make sure you trust your locksmith and check his work.

YOUR EXPERT COMMERCIAL LOCK & KEY CHANGE LOCKSMITHS IN HOUSTON TX!

Find out more about the Commercial Lock & Key Change Services that we offer, call 713-688-3887

Testimonials

As a real estate broker I often need a Houston locksmith to get a door of a property open to show a prospective buyer. I have worked with Alamo Key and Lock for a long time. Absentee homeowners often lose keys or tenants change locks to prevent the home form being shown. Alamo Key and Lock will always respond and get the door opened and a new key made. I also use them to change locks on foreclosures and evictions to prevent re-entry by the former occupants. I have been very satisfied with the service over the years.

Charlotte Everson

They were the best and most prompt locksmiths I have experienced.

Lly Gomez

I accidentally locked my car after putting my daughter in the child's seat in the back seat. It was a hot day also and I began to panic. A stranger called Alamo Key and Lock for me along with the police. I was surprised that the Houston Locksmith arrived at almost the same time as the police. The locksmith got the door opened and my daughter was fine. The policeman said if the locksmith did not come right away he would have had no choice but to break the window because seconds count. I owe a big thanks to Alamo Key and Lock for responding to my emergency so quickly.

Catherine Vaughn

Thank you Alamo key &lock and Francisco for opening my car total life savers. Flat rate scam free, I before I called them I called another place that wanted my car make and model, year, color and would give me a rate once they got there. I recommend them took less than minute to open it.

Cindy Marron

I am SO impressed with Ron and his Team (Uve and Francisco) at Alamo Key & Lock! We needed six areas at the hospital secured, and they promptly installed the keypad locks and came up with a great price for us. Thank you! And the technicians were professional, friendly and always smiling. Bravo! We will definitely call on you again

Sean H

Francisco was quick and opened my lock professionally. 10/10

Scott Girdwood

I locked my keys inside my car. I called Alamo Key & Lock, and they sent a technician out promptly (arrived in about 20 minutes). Their tech, Jonathan, was courteous, skilled, and quick. They charge a fair price.

Peter Vu

When I was locked out of my car after work I found Alamo Key and Lock on Google and called them. The Houston locksmith showed up in fifteen minutes and opened my door. The price was very reasonable but enough to make me more careful in the future. Very good service.

Chad Smith

I locked my keys in my car with my dog in the vehicle… Alamo locksmith got there super fast. He even called other locksmiths nearby to see if they could get there faster. WOW. Thank you so much, Ron!

Julia Teekell McCoy

Alamo is the best! Francisco arrived earlier than the quoted time and was courteous and helpful. It was a raimt day so that was awesome. Highly recommend!!!

Marcus Allen

Very nice and professional young man came out. I completely gave up after two tow truck drivers came to try and get my keys out before him, but he was persistent and tried every which way possible. He could've easily said it would be more to make a key, but he tried and tried until he got it open. I am very grateful because not only did I not have to make a key, but he got my keys out really quick. Thank you guys!!!

Lilly Vazquez

Francisco lock personnel was OUTSTANDING...lock was SUPER DIFFICULT OPENING...AND FRANCISCO NEVER QUIT AND NEVER GAVE UP...I had already givung up HOPE AND BOUT TO BREAK WINDOW AND GET IN...But Francusco never QUIT and Finally got lock open....THANG THE LORD

Malik Lyle

Within 2 weeks, I’ve locked my keys in the car twice. Francisco came both times and was very understanding. I felt so embarrassed that this happened to me again. Thank you Alamo for having great customer service!!

Elizabeth Rivera

Ron is absolutely amazing. Alamo key and lock will always service my business and personal locksmith needs. The service is always prompt and the work is done effectively and efficiently
Do yourself a favor...call them ?

Shontell

Very good service
When I been on vacation I locked my keys in the car
Ron answer the phone & say he will be there 10-15 min
He comes in 12 min very fast service
& also affordable price
Very recommended!!!

SOS LOCKSMITH

Fantastic service and quality of work. Ron and his crew are not only professional, they are good people as well. I’ve used Alamo at work and home. After some not-so-successful attempts at finding a locksmith, I’m glad I found these guys!

A.G. Stockstill

Ron was very nice. They arrived very quick and they are affordable. I will definitely use them when I have an emergency.

Jasmine Brown

Excellent service was very prompt and ready to unlock. Great customer service and caring of vehicle damage. Will recommend to anyone

Derrick Harris

They showed up quickly, and got the job done right! I’ll definitely be using them again in the future.

Kristyn Morrow

Fast, friendly, on-time service. And he did a good job.

tetra guy tx

They are really wonderful. Everyone should call for their service asap. I have never met people like this before in my life. I appreciate your kind gesture.

Sabina Takyi

Awesome service was at my location under 5 min. With quick service. Definitely will use this company again when locking my keys in the car...

Rachel Valentine

alamo key and lock saved my day ! super fast and affordable service
thank you ron

Helen Johnson

Alamo Key & Lock rekeyed my front door. I called and they were able to came the same evening. We did have problems with the new lock. I called Alamo and they came back out and repaired it. Now the lock is working perfectly! Thank you Francisco for the great follow through.

B W

Great service! My door handle lock broke and I was unable to turn the handle. They sent a technician right away and he was very helpful and professional.

Alyce Payne

It's happened to us all. Keys locked in the car.. Prompt service with excellent customer service. Call these guys if you're ever in a bind!

Caroline Carrillo

Ron was easy to access, very responsive, and prompt. He was even able to come out during the weekend and was very reasonably priced. I also appreciated how patient and insightful Ron was about discussing my home lock/security needs.

Sangeeta Ballal

He was great and service was excellent

channie jourdon

Jonathan came to do my car door unlock with in mins after my call.he didn’t take even 5 min to unlock my car door.this best service and recommended to every one

Ron for Alamo locksmith responded fast didn't have to wait ....fixed within 20min best locksmith service in Houston by far I highly recommend to anybody

Dusty Mcdonald

Super fast
Ron was great
Quick and handy
An all around great guy
And an awesome tech.

Tariesha Lee

Very friendly, reasonable price and great service.

Brenden Slack

Thank you!
Fast, easy and fair price.

Mario 12

Great service fast in and out :

Zaki Aboelnaga

The service was absolutely quick and painless. I would recommend them to everyone

Kendra W

The tech came in no time..

Jermarian Green

The service was quick and efficient.

Millicent Dallas

Customer service was excellent, very friendly, fast service

Lee Polk

I loved it! Got my keys! The guy was hot too lol! Bouns! ? Thanx!

Katrina Howard

Very fast n great service from Ron ?

Rosa M

He was prompt and hard worker, made me some keys. Thanks

Heidi Coody

COOL dude he was fast and kept me updated threw the whole thing and great prices

Nick Pariah

Quick, friendly service from Ron this morning! Thank you Alamo Key & Lock!

Michelle Robinson

Great service! My door handle lock broke and I was unable to turn the handle. They sent a technician right away and he was very helpful and professional.

Alyce Payne

Ron was Very quick , and great communication!

SaBreah Gibbs

Ron is absolutely amazing. Alamo key and lock will always service my business and personal locksmith needs. The service is always prompt and the work is done effectively and efficiently
Do yourself a favor...call them ?

Shontell

On time and quick service! The price I was quoted was the price I paid

Jackie Smith

Awesome job got here quick and did the job quick as well

celica contreras

Quick, kind and efficient. Francisco is the best!!

Phillip Pryor

Juan is the MAN! Definitely a God sent ! When locked out call Alamo Key and Lock!

Shan S

Awesome and quick process by Ron! And overly reasonable flat rate!

TayJ Da_Prodigy

Ron for Alamo locksmith responded fast didn't have to wait ....fixed within 20min best locksmith service in Houston by far I highly recommend to anybody

Dusty Mcdonald

My husband lost a car key to a Nissan Altima I called Alamo long story short they couldn't fix it unfortunately but, I receive FULL refund.
Thank You Alamo!

Sarahi Rodríguez

Very quick and efficient service!

Brasswerks houston

Great service

Bardo Ruiz

Great fast service

talha qureshi

Technician arrived when he said he would, was friendly and up front throughout the entire process. Will use again

Christopher Jacquet

Francisco was great! He came in professional worked fast to rekey my door and was gone in a flash.